A 70-year-old man who was attacked in Lisburn earlier this month has died.

Jim Heasley, of Craig Gardens, had been left in a critical condition after the attack in the Manor Park area on Sunday, 17 October.

Police say they have launched a murder inquiry following Mr Heasley's death in hospital on Friday.

Det Ch Insp Justyn Galloway said it had been "an unprovoked attack on a defenceless man... on his way home after a night out with his friends".

He said Mr Heasley's family were devastated by his death.

"Jim was known locally as 'Sunshine', and from our enquiries over the last few days we have learned that Jim was a well known and respected member of the community and will be sadly missed by his family and his friends," he said.

"Jim left the pigeon club in Longstone Street, and we know he was attacked in Manor Park. We want to speak to anyone who saw any movement in those areas between 1245am and 1am.

"We particularly want to speak to a blonde woman and a man seen walking into Manor Park sometime shortly after 1am. You may be able to help us with this enquiry and we would like to speak to you as witnesses."

A 47-year-old man appeared in court earlier this month charged with grievous bodily harm in connection with the incident.